Definition

Noun: 1. A highly venomous snake: A large, fast, and aggressive snake (Dendroaspis polylepis) native to parts of sub-Saharan Africa. It is one of the world's most dangerous snakes due to the potency of its venom and its nervous temperament. 2. A specific species of mamba: The longest species of venomous snake in Africa, known for the inky black coloration inside its mouth, rather than the color of its scales, which are typically olive, brown, or grey.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The black mamba is feared throughout its range for its speed and potent neurotoxic venom.
  • Despite its name, the black mamba's skin is not black; the name comes from the dark interior of its mouth.
  • A bite from a black mamba requires immediate medical attention and antivenom.

Advanced Usage

• Figurative use for extreme danger or speed: In literature or conversation, "black mamba" can be used metaphorically to describe something extremely fast, deadly, or menacing.
  • The new fighter jet was the black mamba of the skies, undetectable and lethal.

Variants and Related Words

• Mamba (noun): The general term for snakes of the genus , which includes the black mamba, green mambas, and others.
• Elapid (noun): The family of front-fanged venomous snakes () to which mambas, cobras, and coral snakes belong.

Synonyms

• Dendroaspis polylepis (scientific name)
• African black mamba

Related Phrases

• As fast/quick as a black mamba: A simile emphasizing great speed.
  • The striker moved toward the goal as quick as a black mamba.
• The kiss of the black mamba: A metaphorical phrase for a fatal or extremely dangerous encounter.
  • Signing that contract without reading it was like receiving the kiss of the black mamba.

Noun

1. a highly venomous southern African mamba dreaded because of its quickness and readiness to bite